First National Additive Manufacturing Symposiu Inaugurated in New Delhi

New Delhi: The first National Additive Manufacturing Symposium (NAMS) 2024 was inaugurated today by S Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), at an event designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the Additive Manufacturing (AM) ecosystem in India. The symposium featured the release of the Additive Manufacturing Landscape Report and the unveiling of an indigenously developed additive manufacturing machine.

In his inaugural address, S Krishnan emphasized the potential of additive manufacturing across various sectors to enhance manufacturing efficiency and capture new markets. He advocated for strengthening connections between the National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) in Hyderabad and other organizations engaged in this emerging technology. “Efforts should be made to develop a robust network connecting machines, materials, software, and products to maximize business opportunities and facilitate industry growth,” he stated.

The National Strategy for Additive Manufacturing (NSAM), introduced in 2022, aims to harness the transformative potential of AM technology to drive industrial growth, innovation, and inclusive development. Currently, seven dedicated centers are actively promoting the deployment and development of AM technologies. These centers serve as vibrant hubs involving diverse stakeholders, spearheading advancements in optical chip packaging, optical computing chips, electronic components, medical devices, food 3D printing, and renewable energy products.

NAMS 2024 saw participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including industry, academia, and government. Key industry associations such as the Electronic Industries Association of India (ELCINA), India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA), Additive Manufacturing Society of India (AMSI), AM Chronicle, and 3D GRAPHY LLP were present. Representatives from central ministries, including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Department of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and the Department of Defense Production, also attended, along with state government representatives from Telangana.

The symposium attracted participation from both national and international companies, including STPL3D, Divide By Zero Technologies, EOS GmbH, Stratasys Ltd., Hewlett-Packard Company, NIKON SLM Solutions, General Electric, and Philips Additive. The event featured extensive panel discussions that provided a comprehensive overview of the AM ecosystem in India, highlighting the collaboration between industry, academia, and government.